Morra

What You Need

• 2 players
• No equipment needed — just your hands and voice

Setup

1. Agree on the winning point target (typically 5, 7, or 10 points)
2. Players stand or sit facing each other within arm's reach

Gameplay

1. Both players simultaneously extend one hand, showing 0 to 5 fingers
2. At the exact same moment, each player calls out a number — their guess for the total fingers shown by both players combined
3. The total can range from 0 (both fists) to 10 (both open palms)
4. If exactly one player guesses the correct total, that player scores 1 point
5. If both players guess correctly, or both guess wrong, no point is scored
6. Play the next round immediately — the game is continuous and fast

Calling and Timing

• Both the throw and the call must happen simultaneously
• Calling after seeing your opponent's hand is not allowed
• In competitive play, a neutral observer watches for timing violations

Scoring

• 1 point to the player who correctly guesses the combined total
• No points if both players are right or both are wrong
• First to the agreed target wins the round

Winning

• First player to reach the agreed point total wins the game

Strategy Tips

• The most common throws are 2 and 3 fingers — guessing the middle range (4-6) covers the highest-probability totals
• Watch for patterns: opponents often repeat successful throws
• Alternating between a fist and an open palm with matching high/low guesses is an unpredictable strategy
• Speed and confidence matter — hesitating signals your intent

Note

• Morra is one of the oldest recorded games in history, with roots in ancient Egypt and Rome
• It is played across the Mediterranean, Middle East, and parts of Asia under many names